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Modular Housing Solutions Featuring Photovoltaic Panels and Steel Framework For Urban Living

Authors:
CASSANO VITTORIO, SARACINO EMANUELE
Modular Housing Solutions Featuring Photovoltaic Panels and Steel Framework For Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing a robust steel framework and modular units enhanced by photovoltaic panels, the design presents an efficient solution for urban housing in densely populated settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for quick adaptability to changing urban demographics.
02
Photovoltaic panels integrated into the design promote energy self-sufficiency.
03
The mechanical lifting system facilitates efficient assembly of housing units.
04
Stacked configurations optimize vertical space in limited urban environments.
05
Water purification systems enhance sustainability and resource management.

**Overview and Context**

Located in Hong Kong, a city characterized by its high population density of approximately 7.4 million residents across 1,050 km², the InMobile project addresses critical housing shortages exacerbated by significant demand and limited space. Through the introduction of modular and mobile housing solutions, the initiative is tailored to alleviate the urban challenges faced by residents in this densely populated environment while adhering to efficient land usage criteria.

**Modularity and Spatial Strategy**

The design framework focuses on modularity, promoting efficient spatial utilization through a primary structural frame measuring 10m x 10m, complemented by a secondary frame for stacking modular units. This strategy facilitates the configuration of living spaces that cater to both individual and communal needs. Two types of modular units are proposed: a standard module unit of 33m², designed for singles, couples, or small families, and a smaller half module unit for adaptable uses. The design allows for vertical aggregation, optimizing land use, while promoting a sense of community living through flexible arrangements.

**Sustainability and Innovative Features**

The project incorporates various sustainable elements to reduce its ecological footprint. It features photovoltaic panels on structural modules for energy self-sufficiency and innovative water systems for purification and distribution, ensuring responsible resource management. Additionally, a mechanical lifting system for modular units streamlines the construction process, enhancing efficiency with adjustable calipers and a pulley system that minimizes disruption during assembly. These elements collectively establish a comprehensive approach to sustainable living within the unique constraints of an urban environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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